Arsenal FC reclaimed the Premier League summit with a slim 1-0 victory over Newcastle United, but the result masked deeper concerns about consistency and finishing.

The decisive moment came early, as Eberechi Eze curled a stunning effort into the top corner in the ninth minute, following a cleverly worked short corner routine orchestrated by Kai Havertz.

The win restored Arsenal’s lead after briefly dropping to second behind Manchester City, but the performance did little to silence critics who question their ability to sustain pressure in a tight title race.

Newcastle, despite creating several chances through William Osula, Bruno Guimarães, and Sandro Tonali, once again exposed their lack of clinical finishing, failing to capitalise on periods of dominance.

Eddie Howe’s tactical adjustments in the second half, including the introduction of Yoane Wissa and Harvey Barnes, injected urgency, but poor decision-making in front of goal ultimately cost the visitors any chance of a comeback.

Wissa’s late miss summed up Newcastle’s frustrating afternoon, reinforcing a pattern of missed opportunities that continues to undermine their competitiveness at crucial moments.

While Arsenal sit three points clear, injuries to both Havertz and Eze cast a shadow over the victory, raising fresh concerns about squad depth at a pivotal stage of the season.